Hike up Black Mountain (Rhus Ridge Trail)

Santa Clara County, California

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Details

Distance

9.8 miles

Elevation Gain

2404 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Tiffany Chou

Very cool views of Silicon Valley at the top, and a really great workout!

Just outside of Los Altos is a very long ridge of mountains, one of which is Black Mountain.

This is a very dry hike, with no tree canopy, so it can get very hot! Be aware that this can make the hike feel a lot more difficult with the sun beating down on you. Follow Rhus Ridge Trail to Black Mountain Trail, then continue on Black Mountain Trail to reach the summit. One way to the summit is almost 5 miles, so make sure to make enough time for this hike!

The trail has a very gradual incline, up until the very last part -- don't think you're done until you're actually done! Not too many views exist at the very top, where you'll find some radio towers, but on the way down, you'll see some expansive views of Silicon Valley.

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Features

Hiking

Easy Parking

Forest

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